6th Feb 2009, 08:24

I picked up a '98 M Roadster in November and garaged it immediately to hibernate for the cold (and snowy) New England winter. I drove it a few times and can't wait until Spring - call it delayed gratification. It has 21K miles so is basically just broken in. My initial take: strong and torque-y pretty much at any rev, surprisingly cheapo interior, looks best from rear 3/4, a pour it on chassis that takes a line and doesn't quit, and slightly low gearing that has you spinning at 3 grand over 70ish. The z3M may be one of the unsung bargains right now.

Faults:

General Comments:

I bought the MR after looking at and driving several other cars, including Corvette, Boxster, S2000, MB CL430, and M3. All of the others were nice, but the clear winner overall was the MR. Plus, the insurance was the cheapest of the bunch (about $300/ year cheaper than the M3, which has the same engine and seats 5!)

I've been very happy with it. Some random thoughts about this car:

I made the round trip drive from FL to D.C. five times in this car, and I'm 6'2". I average about 25 mpg, which is astounding to me because I've been accused of being a lead foot. This car is quick enough to get you into serious trouble with the law! It's got a great rumble and glorious engine noise when you wind it out. Not even a need to down-shift when passing slower traffic because of the abundant torque. Highly addictive. The top is easy to work and I've not had any troubles with water tightness. This is the only convertible I've driven that has low enough side window sills that you don't feel like you're in the bathtub, like in the S2000, Corvette, 350Z, etc.

If you can find one for sale, take it out for a spin. You can't help, but fall for it.

2002 BMW M Roadster Z3 M 3.2 from North America

Summary:

Fast, fun, quality made, somewhat rare

Faults:

None.

General Comments:

During test drive I asked the seller what the orange light that kept coming on was for... he said its the "DSC traction control"...he disabled it and I could then keep it on at will at speeds below 50 mph in 1st or 2nd gear.

While driving with the top down on a sunny day fun trip I was trapped behind a string of 5 slow cars... I asked my nervous wife if it was OK to pass.. she said yes.. but at 123 mph and still accelerating she said ENOUGH you've passed them.

It is hard to keep it down to a reasonable freeway speed.. it likes cruising at 80-90mph. At one point I was driving along at 70mph. The road cleared. I ran it up to around 140 with absolutely no melodrama before backing off.

This is not my fastest car, but the combination of performance and quality puts it head and shoulders above my '66 TVR Griffith 400, '66 Supercharged Shelby GT350, or Vette in terms of enjoyable vehicle. I highly recommend it.